BEHOLD - REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)

STUDY BASICS

Have you been diagnosed with REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)? You may be eligible for a research study to determine how bioenergetic changes in the brain occur and contribute to progression of Lewy Body Dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. This is a brain imaging research study using MRI and PET scans to look at a certain kind of brain activity. Compensation provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

This study wants to understand how changes in the functioning of the brain’s energy, termed “mitochondrial activity” and “bioenergetics”, occur as Lewy Body Dementia develops. Researchers have shown that people with conditions such as Dementia with Lewy Bodies have a decrease in mitochondrial and bioenergetic function. It is thought that this could be one of the earliest changes in the brain cells of people with these types of diseases, and if so, understanding where in the pathway, and when, these changes occur, may help target new therapies.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• 55-90 years of age
• REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Participants will have brain MRI and PET scans, provide blood and skin samples, and complete paper and pencil test, questionnaires and neurologic exam, over several visits at UPMC Presbyterian/Montefiore.